New Data Center Project, New Shepherd President, Shepherdstown Mayor To Run Again
Published about 23 hours ago • 10 min read
Observer Weekly
February 26, 2026
Jefferson County, WV news & events
This was shaping up to be a slow news week, with not much to report from our local governments. In Charleston, the Governor and legislators have been jousting about the state budget, but anything we write today might change tomorrow.
But then we heard early this morning that Shepherd University had selected its next president, and we scrambled to arrange a quick interview with Dr. Cameron Wesson. Just as we got off the phone with Dr. Wesson, Governor Morrisey announced a 500+ acre data center project, to be built next door in Berkeley County. We have early details on that below, with more to come.
— Steve Pearson
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New Data Center Complex Announced For Berkeley County
Potomac Edision's Beddington substation
West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey announced plans for a new data center in Berkeley County during a press conference in Charleston earlier today.
The project is being developed by Penzance, a real estate investment, management and development company based in Washington DC. According to the announcement, Penzance will invest $4 billion to construct 1.9 million square feet on 548 acres. The project will require 600 megawatts of power capacity at full operation. The project is self-funded, with no state investment.
Based on the description of the project, it will occupy several parcels of land located near the intersection of Berkeley Station, Scrabble, and Beddington roads, just east of Potomac Edison’s Beddington 500/128 KV substation.
This is the first project to be designated a “high impact data center” under the rules recently issued to implement the HB 2014 legislation enacted last year. These rules provide for a streamlined approval process and remove local restrictions on data center projects that meet the criteria set forth in the HB 2024 rules.
Berkeley County Commission President Eddie Gochenour said he is “very optimistic about this project. We have already identified a significant opportunity to potentially utilize reclaimed water, which will lower costs for the company, save taxpayer money for the county, and preserve our vital natural resources. The annual revenue generated by this project will further cement Berkeley County’s reputation as the premier destination to live and work in the Mountain State. I am grateful for Governor Morrisey’s leadership in championing this type of investment.”
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Shepherd University Selects Its Next President
Dr. Cameron B. Wesson will become Shepherd University’s 17th president on July 1.
Wesson was one of five finalist candidates invited to visit the Shepherd campus earlier this month. During that visit, he participated in a series of meetings and an open forum where he introduced himself to the community and presented his vision for the University.
Wesson is currently serving as the Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at La Salle University. He grew up in Talladega County, Alabama and attended Auburn University, earning two bachelor’s degrees — in architecture and anthropology. During his on-campus presentation, Wesson spoke of his undergraduate experience, noting that he didn’t discover his passion for anthropology until he was almost four years into the architecture program. He highlighted the life-changing influence of a faculty member in the anthropology department, Dr. John Cottier, who encouraged him to stick around for an extra year to earn the second degree as the inspiration that has guided his 30 year career in academia.
The search committee was chaired by Austin J. Slater, Jr., the vice-chair of the University’s Board of Governors. Slater noted Dr. Wesson’s enthusiastic engagement with students, faculty, staff, and the community during the interview process: “Dr. Wesson spent time listening to all of the stakeholders, and we are excited about what he brings to the University in terms of enthusiasm, innovation, and development.” Slater expressed confidence that Shepherd University “will continue its pivotal role as an academic, cultural, and community hub under his leadership.”
In a statement released with this morning’s announcement, Wesson said “I am honored to serve as the 17th president of Shepherd University. I look forward to working with the dedicated faculty and staff as we prepare our remarkable students with the skills and education they’ve come to expect from the University. I am excited to collaborate with the entire Shepherd community to continue enhancing our academic rigor and the student experience as we prepare for the future of higher education.”
Wesson spoke with The Observer earlier today and remarked that he sees one of his important roles will be to remind people of the value proposition of higher education and how it can transform lives. He says he expects to have a lot of conversations during his first 90 days — talking with students, alumni, the local community, along with leaders in the region and in Charleston to understand their concerns and perspectives.
Wesson plans to reside in Popodicon, on the Shepherd University campus. The Observer asked him if he had any thoughts about the next ram and he suggested “Braxton” (his middle name).
A message from the Jefferson County CVB
Drink. Eat. Repeat.
Jefferson County Restaurant Week March 1-8
Join us for a week of delicious dining experiences, price-fix menus, and unbeatable specials and deals at your favorite local spots. Whether you're a foodie or just looking for a great meal, there's something for everyone!
Check out the CURRENT list of participating restaurants and start planning your culinary adventure at WhereAlmostHeavenBegins.com.
Don't miss out on this tasty event — mark your calendars and invite your friends!
Gatz Seeks Second Term as Shepherdstown Mayor
Mayor James Gatz (with black/orange scarf) recognizes local artist Danielle Corsetto at the unveiling of Shepherdstown's newest "dog" bench in December.
Shepherdstown Mayor James Gatz announced today that he will seek re-election in June’s municipal election.
“I’m proud of what’s been accomplished and I’m pleased to announce that I am running for re-election so we can continue to move our Town forward while protecting its future,” Gatz said.
Gatz pointed to several first-term achievements since first taking office in July 2024. On the financial side, he noted that his administration developed a more transparent Town budget, bringing the municipality into full compliance with State budget and audit requirements. Downtown has seen new investment through seasonal and holiday lighting, an art bench initiative, Hometown Heroes banners, and a new First Friday music series. The Town also launched an updated website at Shepherdstown.gov and a community-wide newsletter distributed via email and social media.
“While real progress has been made, additional important work remains,” Gatz said, and acknowledged the collaboration of Town Council, staff, and community volunteers during his first term.
As of this writing, no other candidates have announced their intention to run for the mayoral seat. In 2024, Shepherdstown’s municipal election saw record turnout with Gatz winning by a wide margin. The candidate filing period opens March 2 and runs through March 13. The in-person voting is scheduled for Tuesday, June 2.
You can follow The Observer’s coverage of the 2026 election at ObserverWV.com.
A message from the Shepherdstown Opera House
Come Out & Dance!
Join X of the Potomac with Mister Mae to welcome spring with some live music and dancing at the Shepherdstown Opera House on March 28. Details and advance ticket purchase at OperaHouseLive.com.
QUICK UPDATES...
February 27 Deadline To Vote In “I Voted” Sticker Contest — Shepherdstown Middle School student Arabella Piccolomini is one of four finalists selected from more than 1,100 entries in the statewide “I Voted” sticker contest. Kris Warner, the WV Secretary of State, is inviting all residents to cast a vote for their favorite sticker by 4:30 pm on February 27 (last week’s issue indicated an incorrect deadline date). There is a limit of 1 vote per email address. The winner will be announced on March 11. Click here to view the finalists’ sticker designs and cast a vote.
Bark in the Park vendor opportunity — The Animal Welfare Society of Jefferson County will hold its annual Bark in the Park event on June 6th at Jefferson Memorial Park in Charles Town. If you would like to set up a booth to display a craft or business (it does not need to be animal related), email jst107@aol.com for more information. A 10 x 10 foot vendor space will cost $25. You must provide your own set up. Animal Rescues and non-profits will be provided space free of charge.
Ranson Race early-bird deadline is February 28 — The Ranson Race 5K and Health & Wellness Fair is a community-centered event designed to promote health, wellness, and family fun in Ranson, West Virginia and the surrounding region. The March 7 event brings together runners, families, local businesses, and community members for an energizing morning in support of community wellness initiatives. The Ranson Race 5K will begin at 11am and finish at the Ranson Civic Center where our annual Health & Wellness Fair will be in full swing. >>>Info & Registration…
Juried Art Exhibit Call for Entries — The Berkeley Arts Council’s 16th Annual Art & Earth Juried Art Exhibit will be on display from Thursday April 16 to Sunday June 14, 2026. The exhibit has the theme ‘Art and Earth: My Art – My World’. Entries should reflect the artist’s view of nature or the environment, or reflect an Earth Day related theme. The deadline for entry is midnight, March 13. >>>Info & Registration…
MEETINGS
Mar 3 (Tue, 7:00 pm): Ranson City Council regular meeting with Public Hearing on rezoning request for Sleepy Hollow subdivision located on Cranes Lane. Location: Ranson City Hall meeting room (312 South Mildred St, Ranson)
Highlights of upcoming events around Jefferson County:
Live Theater: To Those Who Love The Moon — An anthology of pieces about love, resilience and the moon performed by Roving Peregrine Theater Company. Black Box Arts Center, 113 South Princess St, Shepherdstown. Friday, Feb 26 @ 8 pm, Saturday, Feb 22 @ 8 pm, Sunday, Mar 1 @ 2:30 pm. $ Tickets & Info…
Live Theater: Family, Friends & Fear — Four short plays presented by the Artfull Codgers with admission pay-what-you-wish to benefit the Shepherd University Ram Food Pantry. Byrd Center Auditorium, 213 North King St, Shepherdstown. Friday, Feb 27, 7 pm and Saturday, Feb 28 and Sunday, Mar 1, 2 pm. $
Live Theater: Rogue's Gallery — A piece of art is destroyed and two hapless security guards need to explain what happened. MAC Ice House, 138 Independence St, Berkeley Springs. Friday, Feb 27, 7:30 pm and Saturday, Feb 28, 7:30 pm and Sunday, Mar 1, 2:30 pm. $ Tickets & Info…
Live Theater: Whodunit...The Musical — A musical comedy mystery presented by The Potomac Playmakers. 17303 West Washington St, Hagerstown, MD. Friday, Feb 27 – Sunday, Mar 8, multiple showtimes. $ Tickets & Info…
Wild Residents of Town Run — A Town Run Watershed event exploring amphibians, birds and insects that inhabit the Town Run. Shepherdstown Public Library, 145 Higbee Ln, Shepherdstown. Saturday, Feb 28, 11 am - noon. Free. Info…
Black History Soul Food Tasting & Program — A community program featuring soul food tasting and a Black History presentation. Saint Philip's Episcopal Church, 411 South Lawrence St, Charles Town. Saturday, Feb 28, 1 - 3 pm. Free. Info…
Shepherdstown Farmers Market — Biweekly indoor winter farmers market featuring local produce and goods. War Memorial Building, 102 East German St, Shepherdstown. Sunday, Mar 1, 10 am - 1 pm. Free. Info…
Stanislav Golovin, Clarinet — An Appalachian Chamber Music Festival concert featuring clarinetist Stanislav Golovin. Happy Retreat, 600 Mordington Ave, Charles Town. Sunday, Mar 1, 2 - 4 pm. $ Tickets & Info…
A Streetcar Named Desire — A National Theatre Live theatrical production captured on film. Shepherdstown Opera House, 131 West German St, Shepherdstown. Sunday, Mar 1, 2 pm. $ Tickets & Info…
CATF 2026: Sneak Peek — A preview of the 2026 Contemporary American Theater Festival season. Christ Reformed Church, 304 East German St, Shepherdstown. Sunday, Mar 1, 6:30 pm. Free, but reservations required. Info…
Meeting A Double Bottom Line: Community Investment — A Shepherd University Lifelong Learning Brown Bag Lecture Series presentation on the development of Community Development Financial Institutions, which are dedicated to serving low-income communities. Byrd Center Auditorium, 213 North King St, Shepherdstown. Wednesday, Mar 4, 2:10 pm. $ Tickets & Info…
Farm Marketing Workshop — A workshop hosted by the Shepherd University Agricultural Innovation Center. Shepherd University Farm, 482 Billmyer Rd, Shepherdstown. Wednesday, Mar 4, 5:30 - 7 pm. Free. Info…
Run, Hide, Fight: Growing Up Under The Gun — A documentary examining the impact of gun violence drills and lockdown culture on American students. Post-film discussion facilitated by the Panhandle Gun Safety group in partnership with Everytown for Gun Safety and Brady United. Shepherdstown Opera House, 131 West German St, Shepherdstown. Thursday, Mar 5, 6 pm. $ Tickets & Info…
Ongoing
Phaze 2 Gallery: ToUgH sHaPes — On-campus exhibit explores geometric form and perception. Phaze 2 Gallery, Shepherd University, 92 West Campus Drive, Shepherdstown. Exhibit runs until March 6. Gallery is open 4-7 pm M-F. Free. Info…
Art Exhibit: The Audacity of the Mundane — Photography by Charlee Brodsky. Shepherdstown Public Library, 145 Higbee Ln, Shepherdstown. Exhibit runs until Mar 31. Free. Info…
St. Isidore Market — Community market offering locally produced food and goods. St. James Church, 49 Crosswinds Dr, Charles Town. Thursdays, 5:00 - 6:30 pm. Free. Info…
Kay Shultz and Greg Welter of the Town Run Watershed Group introduced a community meeting on February 24 in Shepherdstown to discuss a project to inventory and prioritize improvements to Morgan’s Grove Park. According to Patrick Green, the president of the Shepherdtown Community Club, which owns and operates the park, the focus of this project is to understand what needs to be done to improve drainage issues and protect the Town Run watershed. Green also noted that this project will look at other elements to build a holistic understanding of the park and opportunities for improvement.
Every week, The Observer digs into the details that matter in Jefferson County. Our content is free for everyone to read, but producing well-researched local news isn’t free.
